The illustrious Mexican singer Thalia has consistently been an ambassador of Mexican culture, not only through her music but also her iconic outfits and memorable performances. As Mexican Music (música Mexicana) gains international recognition, Thalia reconnects with her cultural roots through her latest project, “A Mucha Honra.” The album is a tribute to her country’s musical traditions, tinged with modern twists of corridos, showcasing her adaptability and love for Mexico.
“I named this album ‘A Mucha Honra’ because it excites me to perform this kind of music. It is imprinted in my DNA. Watching our music make waves internationally fills me with pride. This is my way of celebrating our heritage,” Thalia shared with PS. “This album is my celebration of Mexican music and culture.”
For over five decades, Thalia’s journey as an artist began in the 80s with Timbiriche—a children’s music group in Mexico—and soared in the 90s as a solo star, making her an international sensation. Her musical exploration has transcended various genres, but Mexican sounds like mariachi and ranchera have been omnipresent in her renowned hits such as “Piel Morena” and “Amor a la Mexicana.” She believes that her success partly lies in her capability to evolve with the times.
She offers advice, “Follow your inner rhythm and listen to your intuition – that will lead to self-discovery. Be open to different musical styles. Seizing new opportunities refreshes and evolves your style. Risks are essential—I have lived by that throughout my career.”
Thalia has not only just navigated the música Mexicana landscape with “A Mucha Honra.” She previously released a banda music album, “Thalia Con Banda: Grandes Éxitos,” in 2001, featuring hit singles reimagined with banda music stylings, including “Arrasando” and “María la del Barrio.” Despite criticism, Thalia acknowledges her longstanding affinity for music with Mexican elements and appreciates her devoted fans, the Thali-familia, for their consistent support.
“Mexican influences have always been integrated into my work across various albums. It is a thread that weaves through my entire discography. I’m blessed with a beautiful fan base that treasures our shared history. This project isn’t a sudden shift; my music has always embraced these roots,” she explains.
What distinguishes Thalia’s recent foray into música Mexicana is her incorporation of modern styles. The widespread appeal of the genre has increased with the growing popularity of corridos tumbados—a fusion of traditional corridos with trap—and sierreño. Artists like Natanael Cano and groups like Eslabon Armado have brought these genres into the limelight. Collaborating with prominent figures like Jimmy Humilde and Edgar Rodríguez, Thalia brings together sierreño and pop in songs such as “Bebé, Perdón,” showcasing her versatility.
“Edgar owns the Yellow Room [recording studio] where numerous música Mexicana icons have recorded,” Thalia relates. “This album was born in the heart of the Mexican movement that’s now taking the world by storm. It captures the essence of what Jimmy and Edgar do best. The songwriting and arrangements are extraordinary.”
Although the música Mexicana space has traditionally been male-dominated, Thalia is actively promoting female talent within the industry, such as Dania Valenzuela from Estilo Sin Limite and Ángela Aguilar, daughter of the legendary Pepe Aguilar. Songs like “Choro,” a collaboration with Valenzuela, and “Troca,” featuring Aguilar, highlight this empowerment and support.
“Empowering women within música Mexicana brings me joy. It’s gratifying to sow this seed and open doors for more women in the genre,” she remarks.
Also aware of música Mexicana’s tendency to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals—a significant part of her fan base—Thalia reaffirms her inclusive stance. Responding to how her queer fans anticipate the album, she laughs and says, “I love that!” Then, earnestly she adds, “My music always centers around love and unity. If my songs can bring people together, that’s the ultimate reward for me as an artist.”
Throughout her career, Thalia has never shied away from experimenting with various sounds. She enjoyed substantial success with reggaeton/pop crossovers like “No Me Acuerdo” with Natti Natasha and “Desde Esa Noche” with Maluma. Additionally, she revisited classics with her prior work, “Thalia’s Mixtape.” In “A Mucha Honra,” Thalia continues to diversify her discography with the inclusion of corridos and sierreño.
A nostalgic treat for longtime fans is the revamped “Amor a la Mexicana” on the album, highlighting a deep, soulful aspect of Thalia’s voice with a vibrant corrido twist. Thalia encapsulates her musical identity saying, “What better way to celebrate this full-circle moment than to sing a song that defines my musical essence? I’m singing for Mexico. That’s where my heart lies. When I finished the new version, I truly felt it represented who I am now.”
Article by Lucas Villa, a Mexican American music journalist passionate about pop and Latin music. With over a decade of experience, Villa has interviewed some of the most notable names in the industry for outlets like PS, Allure, Elle, Rolling Stone, Billboard, MTV News, Paper, W Magazine, Vibe, and LGBTQ Nation.
FAQs about Thalia’s Album “A Mucha Honra”
Why did Thalia name her album “A Mucha Honra”?
Thalia named her album “A Mucha Honra” as an expression of her excitement and pride in singing música Mexicana, which is a vital part of her heritage.
Has Thalia always incorporated Mexican music into her work?
Yes, Thalia has consistently featured Mexican musical elements throughout her discography. It has been a constant presence in her career.
Who did Thalia collaborate with on “A Mucha Honra”?
For “A Mucha Honra,” Thalia worked with Jimmy Humilde and Edgar Rodríguez, notable figures in the música Mexicana scene, alongside artists like Dania Valenzuela and Ángela Aguilar.
What message does Thalia hope to convey through her music?
Thalia’s music promotes themes of love, unity, and inclusivity, aiming to connect and bring people together, regardless of background or identity.
Conclusion
Thalia’s “A Mucha Honra” is more than just an album; it is a celebration of Mexican music and culture, a tapestry of traditional and contemporary sounds. Embracing her roots while supporting new talent and maintaining inclusivity, Thalia proves her artistry transcends generations. With this album, she invites fans, old and new, to share in a heartfelt homage to música Mexicana, showcasing her undying love for her heritage and her commitment to diversified musical exploration.